Study 2013 CAA-Quebec on guarantees: the unequal protections

In order to provide consumers with a convenient tool to compare the guarantees offered by automakers, CAA-Quebec study published today its 2013 new vehicle warranties. Among other items highlighted, the additional protections available to purchasers of electric or hybrid cars, more and more present on the market, are likely to reassure them.

"The guarantees offered by manufacturers weigh heavily in the decision to buy one over another vehicle. For a consumer, it is important to properly evaluate, for example to understand what is covered, know the specific protections that may apply to the main components of the vehicle or what is provided for in case of perforation due to the rust, "said Pierre Beaudoin, senior director of technical services at CAA-Quebec.

Guarantee a bumper to the other: significant differences

This year, Hyundai, Kia and Mitsubishi are the only manufacturers to ensure the entire vehicle for a period of 5 years or 100,000 km. Mitsubishi offers the same coverage for 10 years/160, 000 km powertrain consists of the engine, transmission and differential. "Beyond the marketing strategy, the consumer sent by these companies signal is clear: they rely on the reliability of their product. Benefit from the greatest possible coverage is a must to concerns of members who inquire with our auto consulting services when shopping for a new vehicle, "says Beaudoin.

Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles: the adapted protections

It is reassuring to know that a rule, the same terms of warranty apply to electric and hybrid cars than petrol vehicles. Some components are found even more protected. Thus, several hybrid or electric cars have a cover 8 years/160, 000 km on certain components of the "electric band", including the battery, the power cables in electricity, the electric motor, the electronic control module , charger, etc.. "What manufacturers provide greater coverage to these components is normal and especially reassuring, given fears What still some consumers in relation to these technologies, but until now, they do not prove groundless", said Mr. Beaudoin.

Body: some gains, but ...

Whether in matters of surface rust or perforation of the bodywork, the coverage offered vary widely. General rule, most manufacturers offer a warranty against rust surface 3 or 4 years to a maximum of 60,000 Kilometers or 80 000 km. Notable exception, Volvo and Suzuki (which put an end to its activities in 2014) respectively manufacturers do not give a meager 1 and 1.5 years for this coverage. Encouraging a trend report in recent years: the protections against perforation are more generous for all manufacturers and more particularly for Audi, BMW, Porsche, Volkswagen and Volvo, which henceforth provide coverage between 10 and 12 years without regard to Kilometers. For the majority of manufacturers, however, this protection is still a length of 5 or 6 years.

"The quality of materials used for the construction of motor is much improved with the years and vehicles are better protected against rust. And considering the rigor of our climate, massive use of abrasives on our roads and the difficulties to wash a vehicle during the winter period, consumers are looking for good basic guarantees in the matter. By visiting our study in 2013, we can make the appropriate comparisons and opt for an informed choice, "concluded Mr. Beaudoin.

CAA-Quebec, an organization non-profit founded in 1904, offers its 1,210,000 members services and privileges in the fields of automotive, travel, residential and financial services.

SOURCE: CAA-QUEBEC

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